Contracts Manager

Hawke's Bay Regional Council; Hawke's Bay; On-site; NZD 97,000 - 114,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working options

5 weeks annual leave after 3 years

Life insurance

Income protection

Subsidised eye tests and lenses

Well-being initiatives

Job summary

Hawke's Bay Regional Council in Napier seeks a Contracts Manager to lead the Asset Maintenance Contract within the Works Group. Based at the Taradale depot, you will ensure safe, efficient delivery of projects and manage contractor performance while coordinating with stakeholders to maximise community value.

The role requires a Diploma in Engineering or equivalent, 3–5 years in a similar field, knowledge of NZS3910/NZS3917, health and safety and quality practices, plus strong communication and a

Qualifications

• Diploma in Engineering or equivalent required.
• 3–5 years’ experience in contracts or project management.
• Proven contract administration knowledge including NZS3910/NZS3917.
• Sound understanding of health, safety, and quality management practices.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day delivery of HBRC’s Asset Maintenance Contract.
• Manage contractor performance and coordinate work programmes.
• Maintain relationships with stakeholders and support project delivery.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of Works Group operations.

Skills

Contract management

Project management

Stakeholder management

Communication

Health and safety

Education

Diploma in Engineering or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Hawke's Bay Regional Council – Napier City, North Island

Our vision is a healthy environment and a resilient and prosperous community.

About The opportunity | Ko te āheinga:

We are looking for a Contracts Manager to join the Asset Management team in our Works Group. This is a full time, permanent opportunity based out of the Taradale depot.

The Works Group is responsible for managing and maintaining Hawke’s Bay’s river, drainage and regional park assets, delivering contracted works, and providing expert flood response and emergency management services.

In this role, you will work closely with the Senior Contracts Manager to oversee the day-to-day delivery of HBRC’s Asset Maintenance Contract and a range of infrastructure projects. This role is responsible for ensuring maintenance and construction activities are delivered safely, efficiently, and to a high standard, while maintaining compliance with health, safety, environmental, quality, and procurement requirements.

You will manage contractor performance, coordinate work programmes, build strong relationships with stakeholders, and support the successful delivery of projects and contracts that provide value for the community. The role also contributes to the ongoing improvement of Works Group operations, supports business growth opportunities, and plays a key role in emergency response activities when required.

About you | E pā ana ki a koe:

You will be a contracts or project management professional with a strong understanding of infrastructure maintenance and construction projects. You will bring excellent planning, communication, and relationship management skills, along with a proactive approach to delivering safe, efficient, and high quality outcomes.

Ideally you will also have:

• A Diploma in Engineering or equivalent tertiary qualification, with 3-5 years' experience in a similar role or industry
• Proven project management experience and practical knowledge of contract administration, including NZS3910 and NZS3917
• A sound understanding of relevant legislation, health and safety requirements, and quality management practices
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver results
• Excellent communication and stakeholder relationship management skills, proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
• Valid driver’s licence required

The salary range for this role is between $97,070 to $114,200 and will depend on the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate.

Other benefits of working for our team include:

• Flexible working options to support work/life balance
• 5 weeks annual leave after 3 years
• Life insurance and income protection
• Subsidised eye tests and lenses, flu vaccinations, and other well-being initiatives
• Strong commitment to developing and upskilling people within a supportive working environment.

See a full list of our staff benefits here

As an equal opportunity employer, we are dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. We recognise that collaborative and innovative organisations depend on having a workforce made up from a diverse range of perspectives and experiences. We’re all about excellence, and we encourage open communication – if you need any specific support, just let us know! Our main goal is to empower each person to share their unique talents to contribute to the outcomes for our community. This commitment ensures that our workplace is a dynamic and progressive space where everyone can flourish.

HBRC is responsible for Civil Defence emergencies and as such, all staff may be called upon to support the response.

Applications close Friday, 18 September 2026.

Applicants must have existing rights to work in New Zealand.